The Final Reckoning

I am on my way to the office when my headlights start to flash intermittently, then suddenly stop working altogether. I wind down the window, frantically trying to remember the arm signals for 'indicating', 'slowing down,' and 'help!' In a fluster, I drive straight to a garage.

The mechanic scratches his head. The problem might be dirt in the system, broken fuses, a damaged switch, a faulty battery. I might even need an entirely new headlamp unit. There is a glint in his eye that hints at major expense.

I retreat to the waiting room and to divert my thoughts from impending financial ruin, I dig out Killer Sudoku and begin solving. Next door, I hear the mechanic whistling cheerily through the cheapest possibilities. I sweep my way through inner shapes and Unique Digit Answers, and focus on small figures.

An hour later, just as I am about to complete my puzzle, the mechanic enters the room. He seems rather pleased with himself and I can see it is time for the final reckoning, which turns out to be a three-digit sum for 6. Of course, it's one thing knowing the digits – but putting them in the right order can sometimes be challenging!